TDNigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has appealed to domestic airlines to exercise restraint over threats to suspend operations next week following a sharp rise in Jet A1 fuel prices.
Keyamo made the appeal in a letter dated April 16, 2026, addressed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).
He acknowledged the severe challenges posed by the 300 percent increase in aviation fuel, which has jumped from ₦900 per liter in late February to ₦3,300 per liter.
He urged operators not to raise fares immediately or halt flights, warning that such actions could harm the economy and traveling public.
Government’s Position
Keyamo commended the resilience of airline operators in sustaining services under difficult conditions.
He emphasized the strategic importance of the aviation sector to trade, national security, and economic integration.
He assured operators that the Tinubu administration is committed to supporting the industry through reforms and immediate interventions.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu accords the aviation sector the highest strategic importance.
“Any suspension of flight operations would have far-reaching adverse implications for the national economy, disrupt critical mobility and logistics networks, erode public confidence, and undermine the progress recorded under ongoing reforms,” Keyamo wrote.
Key Appeals
The minister made three major appeals in his letter:
- Airlines should exercise restraint in adjusting airfares, as sudden increases would impose hardship on passengers and depress demand.
- Operators should reconsider any planned suspension of flights, given the potential disruption to commerce and national logistics.
- The Federal Government is fully engaged with the issue and will convene an emergency stakeholders’ meeting on April 22, 2026, in Abuja to seek a sustainable resolution.
Industry Concerns
Airline operators have warned that the unprecedented rise in fuel costs threatens their viability.
Some carriers are presently considering grounding fleets if relief measures are not introduced.
Aviation fuel accounts for a significant portion of operating expenses, and the surge has raised fears of ticket price hikes and reduced accessibility for travelers.
Analysts note that the crisis comes at a time when Nigeria’s aviation sector is struggling with foreign exchange shortages, maintenance costs, and infrastructure challenges.
A prolonged suspension of flights could severely impact trade, tourism, and business travel.
Next Steps
The emergency meeting scheduled for April 22 is expected to bring together government officials, regulators, and industry stakeholders together.
They will explore solutions to the situation, including possible subsidies, supply chain interventions, or fiscal relief measures.
Keyamo concluded his letter by assuring operators of government’s commitment to finding a “prompt, practical, and sustainable resolution.”
